Single Cask

A bottling from a single cask without blending. This type of bottling is characterized by high intensity and great variation from cask to cask.

Definition

Single Cask (one single cask) refers to a bottling that comes exclusively from a single cask and is not blended with contents from other casks. When this is indicated on a bottle, it often signals that the contents are close to the original strength and color that the cask delivered.

Typical characteristics

• Often cask strength (without dilution) and natural color (without caramel coloring).
• Great variation between bottles, because each cask provides its own unique aroma and flavor.
• Many bottlings are potentially unfiltered (un-chill-filtered) or reflect the producer's practices, which can affect texture and clarity.

Production and labeling

• The bottling is drawn from a single cask and is often marketed as 'Single Cask' or 'Cask Strength'.
• The label typically indicates ABV (alcohol by volume) at bottling and may also include information about the cask's identity and the bottling date.

Taste and aroma

• Taste and aroma vary considerably depending on the wood type, toasting, the cask's age and maturation environment. Typical notes can include wood, vanilla, fruit, and spices, but each bottle is unique.

Significance and use

• Single Cask bottles appeal to collectors and whisky enthusiasts who seek an older, more concentrated, or more adventurous experience from a single cask.